Noticing an unexpected lump or growth on your body can be an anxiety-inducing experience that will likely provoke you to ask some questions. “What is this,” “what caused it,” and “how can I treat it” are some typical first thoughts you might have. Two of the most common types of growths you may notice on or under your skin are cysts and abscesses. While cysts and abscesses may look similar, they are distinct conditions with differing causes, symptoms, and treatments.
What Are Cysts?
A cyst is a cluster of cells that form together as a sac and has an abnormal appearance. The sac may contain air, fluid, or other semi-solid material. Cysts usually appear as round lumps and may look red and swollen with yellow or white coloring at the center. Skin cysts usually appear and feel like large peas under the skin.
Many different types of cysts can be found throughout the body. Some of the most common types of cysts include:
- Sebaceous cysts form out of the sebaceous gland and are most often found on the scalp, face, back, and neck.
- Epidermoid cysts develop from the ectodermal tissue and can be found on the head, neck, back, and genitals.
- Pilar cysts form from hair follicles and develop under the skin. They’re most often found on the scalp.
- Ovarian cysts can develop on one or both ovaries and often form during ovulation.
- Ganglion cysts form under the skin along tendons and joints in the hands, wrists, feet, and ankles.
What Causes Cysts?
The causes of cysts will vary depending on the type of cyst. Many cysts are caused by excessive fluid secretion that leads to a sac being formed around the fluid. Blockages in glands and ducts that cause fluids to build up can also lead to cyst formations. They can also form as a result of infections and chronic inflammatory conditions.
Piercings, especially earrings, can also cause cysts. This is most often caused by using too much force when inserting the piercing or by not keeping the pierced area or jewelry clean.
What Are the Symptoms of Cysts?
Cysts are often asymptomatic and can go largely unnoticed apart from their visual appearance. Larger cysts may cause pain and discomfort and should be treated by a doctor. Pain and soreness can also be signs of an infection or rupture and will require professional medical treatment to heal properly.
While ovarian cysts are often asymptomatic, they can have severe symptoms including sharp pains in the pelvis, thighs, and lower back, nausea & vomiting, fever, abdominal bloating, and more. If you suspect you have ovarian cysts and are experiencing symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor to be properly diagnosed and treated.
Cyst Treatments
Small and asymptomatic cysts can sometimes heal on their own without requiring any professional medical treatment. Patients can apply a warm compress to the affected area for 20 minutes multiple times per day to promote healing.
The most common treatments involve draining and/or surgically removing the cyst. Medications, like corticosteroid injections, may be necessary to reduce any inflammation.
You should never attempt to drain, pop, or remove a cyst on your own. Doing so can cause infections and only make matters worse. Always visit a doctor for professional care rather than attempting any risky at-home treatments.
What Is an Abscess?
An abscess, also referred to as a boil, is formed by a puss-filled infection in the body’s tissue. Like cysts, abscesses can appear on your skin as well as beneath the skin throughout the body. Abscesses can be painful and appear red, inflamed, and swollen and are warm and tender to the touch.
There are many different types of abscesses, but they generally fit into three different categories; skin, mouth, and internal abscesses.
- Skin abscesses are found on top of or beneath the skin. They are most commonly found on the armpit, breast, spine, groin, and anus.
- Mouth abscesses can affect your teeth, gums, throat, and tonsils. Mouth abscesses should be treated by a dentist.
- Internal abscesses are rarer than other abscesses and are harder to diagnose and treat. They can develop on organs throughout the body such as the brain, liver, kidneys, and pancreas.
What Causes an Abscess?
Most abscesses develop from bacterial infections. Your immune system can detect bacteria in the body and will send white blood cells to fight the infection. This causes inflammation which kills the nearby tissue and forms a pocket that fills with pus.
Cysts can also cause abscesses to form. If a cyst bursts or becomes infected, it can cause an abscess to form in its place. Infections and bursts are more likely to occur if you attempt to pop or drain a cyst at home, so avoiding unnecessary further complications is another good reason to visit your doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Abscess?
Unlike cysts, abscesses are usually painful and can also cause fever, chills, and fatigue. Mouth abscesses can cause increased tooth sensitivity and make it difficult to open your mouth, chew, and swallow.
Abscess Treatments
Like cysts, abscesses should always be examined and diagnosed by a doctor to ensure proper medical treatment. The treatments for abscesses are similar to cysts and usually involve draining the abscess which is a simple outpatient procedure. Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection. Internal abscesses are more complicated and may require surgery to be removed.
Abscess and Cyst Treatment at AFC Willowbrook
If you’re experiencing cysts or abscesses, schedule an appointment or walk right in to our clinic. Our experienced team of professionals can provide same-day treatments for cysts and abscesses so you can get back to feeling your best as soon as possible. We also offer services for other skin conditions including skin rash treatments, skin tag removals, and wart removals.
